No Glastonbury? No problem: here are 8 incredible European festivals

Glastonbury is on a break, but that doesn't mean your festival plans are in ruins.

Did you know every six years, Glastonbury Festival ruins everyone's European summer festival plans by taking a break? Neither did we, but tragically, this year is its year off.

All's not lost though. 2018 is about exploring everything else the European festival circuit has to offer, and there are some amazing events on this year. Contiki Travel put together a list of Europe's top rock, pop, indie and everything in-between alternatives. If you're keen hit the festivals this European summer, visit Contiki.

Primavera Soundre, Barcelona (30 May - 3 June)

Festival season starts off with a nearly weeklong party in Barcelona. This year's line-up includes artists across electronic and indie music, hip hop and local acts. Expect Nick Cave, Bjork, Lorde, A$AP Rocky and Lykke Li. Aside from the music, the best bit about this festival is that it takes place near Spain's idyllic Mediterranean coast.

Secret Solstice, Iceland (21 - 24 June)

Iceland after Spain might be a shock to the system; this time of year high temperatures are around 13 degrees and oh ya, the sun NEVER GOES DOWN. May to July is midnight sun season, so while you're dancing the day and night away at Secret Solstice, it'll be beautiful daylight, 24/7.

Wireless Festival, UK (6 - 8 July)

Wireless Festival is in the heart of London, and it's where rap, hip hop, dance and pop collide. This year, check out J Cole, Post Malone, DJ Khaled and Stormzy alongside up-and-coming talent.

Bestival, Isle of Wight (2 - 5 August)

In 2005, Bestival set the Guinness World Record for most people in fancy dress at a single event, and ever since then, the south England festival has been known for its fancy dress themed days. Besides being fun, Bestival is known for being involved with social and environmental causes. Charities like Oxfam, Amnesty International and Water Aid are all supported by the event.

Flow Festival, Finland (10 - 12 August)

Flow Festival is held in an incredible power plant in Helsinki and the event is all about colour, organic food and music from all over. Check out Iggy Pop and Massive attack alongside amazing Scandinavian bands.

Sziget, Budapest (8 - 15 August)

Sziget is known for being one of the biggest multicultural events in Europe with over 400,000 people from over 70 countries attending. Held on a ferry-accessible island in the middle of Budapest, the event has an amusement park, art installations and lots of music.

Lowlands, The Netherlands (17 - 19 August)

Lowlands isn't just about music. This festival has film, stand-up comedy, visual arts, literature and street theatre on offer at an event that's a self-described "backpackers' Garden of Eden". There's also a huge outdoor market, sports facilities and campsites that range from basic to glamping.

Reading Festival, UK (24 - 26 August)

Along with Glastonbury, Reading Festival is probably one of Europe's best known festivals, and it's certainly the oldest. Founded in 1971, Reading is one of those events your parents might have gone to, but this year's line-up is firmly in the present. Kendrick Lamar will perform alongside The Wombats, Kings of Leon and Papa Roach.

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